2026-07-23 7 min read
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension. Torsion springs sit above your door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch. Knowing which one you have helps you understand repair costs and safety risks when something goes wrong.
After 15 years wrenching on garage doors across Boston and surrounding towns, I've learned that most homeowners don't know what's lurking above their heads. That gap in knowledge costs people time, money, and sometimes worse. Let me cut through the confusion about garage door springs so you can make smarter decisions about your home.
Torsion springs are the workhorses of the garage door world. A metal rod runs horizontally above your door, and one or two springs wrap around it. When the door closes, the springs wind up tight, storing mechanical energy. When you hit the opener button, that stored energy unwinds and helps lift the 300 to 500 pound door without much effort from the motor.
Torsion springs are precise. They're wound to a specific tension for your exact door weight. That's why a snapped spring can't just be "fixed" with a quick adjustment. The spring has failed completely, and you need a replacement that matches your door's specifications exactly.
These springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use, maybe longer if your door sits in climate control. Boston winters? They're rough on springs. Cold temperatures make metal brittle, and springs fail faster when temperatures swing wildly between seasons.
Extension springs work differently. Two springs (one on each side) hang above the horizontal tracks. As your door closes, these springs stretch. When the door opens, they contract, pulling the door up with the help of your opener motor.
Extension springs come with safety cables running through the center. If a spring snaps, that cable catches it and prevents the spring from whipping across your garage at dangerous speeds. It's a critical safety feature. Without it, a snapped spring becomes a projectile.
These springs also last around 7 to 9 years, but they're more forgiving than torsion springs when it comes to wear. You can sometimes adjust tension on extension springs, which makes some repairs less expensive than full replacement.
**Need garage door springs in Boston today?** Call (617) 925-9450. we cover same-day service across the area.
Look above your garage door. If you see a metal rod running horizontally with one or two springs wrapped around it, you've got torsion springs. If you see springs on either side running parallel to your horizontal tracks, those are extension springs.
This matters because repair costs differ. Torsion spring replacement near me typically runs higher because the job demands precise measurements and specialized tools. Extension spring work is often more affordable, but both require professional hands. Never attempt spring replacement yourself. A snapped spring releases energy equivalent to several hundred pounds of force. People get hurt.
Spring replacement cost in Boston depends on several factors. Are you replacing one spring or both? Torsion or extension? Do you need new cables too? Most homeowners spend between $300 and $600 for a complete spring replacement, though high end doors can run higher.
If only one spring has failed, the other is usually close behind. Springs wear together. Replacing just one is like changing one tire on a car with 80,000 miles. You'll be back soon for the second. I always recommend replacing both at once.
For a detailed breakdown of what affects your estimate, check out our guide to garage door spring replacement cost in Boston. We also cover warning signs you need spring help now so you can spot trouble before your door gets stuck.
A snapped spring means your door won't open. Your opener will strain against the dead weight. Some doors become safety hazards with a broken spring. You need a technician who understands torsion tension, has the right equipment, and carries the correct replacement spring for your door model and weight.
Same-day service exists in Boston. Call us at (617) 925-9450 to get a same-day estimate and have your springs working again before your day falls apart. We'll inspect both springs and give you honest advice about whether repair or replacement makes sense.
You can't stop springs from wearing out, but you can slow the process. Regular maintenance keeps doors balanced and springs under proper tension. Lubricating tracks and springs helps. Avoiding extreme temperature swings helps too, though in Boston that's wishful thinking.
For a full maintenance plan, visit our services page to learn what we offer year-round.
The bottom line: springs are critical, wear out predictably, and need professional replacement. Don't ignore a noisy door or slow opening. Those are early warnings. Address them now, and you'll avoid the emergency call when your door stops working entirely.
How long do garage door springs last? Torsion and extension springs typically last 7 to 9 years with normal use. Harsh Boston winters can shorten that lifespan. Cycle count, climate, and maintenance all affect longevity.
Can I replace just one spring? Technically yes, but both springs wear together. Replacing only one means the second will fail soon, costing you another service call. Most pros recommend replacing both at the same time.
What does a snapped spring sound like? A loud bang or crack, like a gunshot, coming from your garage. The door may drop suddenly or feel extremely heavy. Don't try to operate it. Call for service immediately.
Is spring replacement covered by insurance? Most homeowner policies don't cover spring failure because it's considered normal wear and tear, not sudden damage. Check your policy, but expect to pay out of pocket.
How much does spring replacement cost in Boston? Most jobs run $300 to $600 for both springs, labor, and hardware. Torsion springs cost more than extension springs. Your exact cost depends on door size, spring type, and whether cables need replacement too.